ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Conservation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

DOCS Health

Hearing Conservationist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$325/day

Current certification as a hearing technician or occupational hearing conservationist * Experience within the last two years working as a Audiology Technician * Experience working with military ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConservation JobsConservation Jobs in Illinois

Conservation information

See Illinois salary details

$31K

$35.8K

$40.7K

How much do conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation in Illinois is $35,795.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,400.00 and $36,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs are roles focused on protecting, managing, and restoring natural environments, wildlife, and resources. These professionals work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, parks, research institutions, and private companies. Common positions include conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, park rangers, and environmental educators. The goal of conservation work is to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation jobs often involve fieldwork, research, policy development, and community outreach.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs focus on managing and protecting natural land and wildlife. Your duties as a conservationist depend on your area of specialization. Naturalists or animal biologists, for example, may study endangered species and work to protect them from extinction. Other conservation professionals may manage land and monitor animal populations in nature reserves. You can also work in conservation lobbying or organize education programs for a conservation NGO. You can even work as a conservation officer, a career in which your responsibilities involve enforcing laws meant to protect natural lands and wildlife. This type of career could include park ranger positions or natural resources officer jobs.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in conservation roles, and how are they addressed within teams?

Conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as securing sustainable funding, balancing the needs of communities and ecosystems, and adapting to changing environmental regulations. These issues are typically addressed through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders. Regular team meetings, clear communication, and adaptive project management are essential to navigating these complexities and achieving conservation goals effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservationist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conservationist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, environmental monitoring tools, and sometimes certifications like Certified Conservation Professional (CCP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are crucial for engaging stakeholders and advancing conservation goals. These abilities ensure effective management of natural resources and successful implementation of conservation projects.

What is the difference between Conservation vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservationEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldOften requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related area
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural settings, conservation projects, parks, and wildlife areasField and laboratory work, environmental monitoring, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, parks, wildlife agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Conservation focuses on protecting natural resources and ecosystems through active management and preservation efforts, often involving fieldwork in natural settings. Environmental Technicians support environmental monitoring and assessment tasks, working in both field and lab environments. While both roles require related environmental credentials and may work in similar settings, Conservation emphasizes ecosystem preservation, whereas Environmental Technicians focus on data collection and environmental testing.

What are careers in conservation?

Careers in conservation involve protecting and managing natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. Common roles include conservation scientist, park ranger, environmental educator, and wildlife biologist, often requiring knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and relevant certifications. These jobs typically involve outdoor work and collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions.

What jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservation offers a variety of jobs including conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental educator, and habitat restoration specialist. These roles often require knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes certifications such as GIS or environmental management. They typically involve working outdoors or in research settings to protect natural resources and ecosystems.
More about Conservation jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation jobs in Illinois?

For Conservation jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Conservation jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Conservation job openings:

Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,795 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Assistant Conservator, Paper Conservation

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Art Institute Of Chicago rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 29 rated museums

Job description

About the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities. We are a place of gathering and learning, committed to fostering an inclusive understanding of human creativity.
About the Department
Responsible for the treatment, research, and long-term preservation of over 300,000 works of art in the Art Institute's collections, the Department of Conservation and Science is integral to the museum's mission to safeguard the world's artistic and cultural legacy for future generations. Founded in 1956 with a single paintings conservator, the department has grown to a staff of over 30 specializing in nine disciplines organized in five divisions: Objects and Textiles, Paintings and Frames, Paper and Books, Photography and Media, and Scientific Research. Members of the department contribute to the advancement of the field and the broader awareness of conservation issues through multiple avenues of specialized and societal dissemination, are involved in object-based teaching and scientific research, and actively support the education of future conservation and museum professionals.
Position Summary
The Assistant Conservator plays an important role in the preservation, research, and stewardship of works of art on paper and other paper-based collections. Working collaboratively with conservators, scientists, curators, registrars, and collections staff, this position conducts examinations, research, and conservation treatments and supports long-term care of the museum's permanent collection, exhibitions, acquisitions, and loans.
The Assistant Conservator contributes to innovative conservation practices through technical study, scholarly research, and professional engagement. This role also supports the museum's commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where varied perspectives and experiences strengthen our work and mission.
Responsibilities
Treatment and Collection Care
  • Prepare treatment proposals in consultation with the William E. Urschel Family Director of Paper, Photography and Media Conservation and specialty conservators.
  • Examine, assess, and document the condition of works of art on paper and related collection materials.
  • Perform conservation treatments appropriate to the needs of the collection.
  • Utilize technical imaging, material analysis, and other examination methods to inform treatment decisions.
  • Support preventive conservation initiatives in galleries, storage, and transit.
  • Respond to collection emergencies as requested.
Exhibitions, Loans, and Acquisitions
  • Conduct examinations and prepare condition documentation for works entering or leaving the museum.
  • Review and assess works under consideration for acquisition and prepare related conservation documentation.
  • Support exhibitions, including condition reporting, treatment recommendations, and compliance with lender requirements.
  • Serve as an artwork courier, in person or virtually, when needed.
Conservation Records
  • Maintain accurate conservation documentation in departmental, collection management, and digital asset systems in accordance with museum and archival standards.
Materials and Supplies
  • Contribute to laboratory maintenance and safety practices.
  • Research, recommend, and order conservation materials and supplies with the Administrative Coordinator for Conservation and Science.
Collaboration
  • Communicate with colleagues regarding project priorities, goals, and timelines.
  • Collaborate across departments to support collection care, exhibitions, research initiatives, and institutional priorities.
  • Foster an inclusive and respectful work environment that values diverse perspectives, experiences, and contributions.
Research
  • Conduct research on artists' techniques, materials, and conservation methodologies.
  • Contribute to the advancement of the conservation field through scholarly research and investigation.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices and explore their application to the museum's collections.
  • Perform basic technical analysis following training and collaborate with conservation scientists on advanced scientific investigations.
Communication, Professional Development, and Dissemination
  • Publish and share research findings through museum publications, journals, presentations, social media, and other professional forums.
  • Attend conferences, workshops, and professional meetings.
  • Correspond with conservation professionals, scholars, and researchers regarding technical inquiries and collaborative projects.
  • Participate in public-facing activities, including lectures, tours, and educational programs.
Training and Mentorship
  • Support the supervision and mentorship of interns, volunteers, and visiting scholars.
  • Assist in training art handlers, photographers, and other museum staff on the safe handling and care of collection materials.

Qualifications
  • Master's degree from a recognized conservation training program or equivalent education, training, and experience.
  • Two or more years of postgraduate conservation experience in a museum, library, archive, or related institution.
  • Demonstrated expertise in examining and treating prints, drawings, manuscripts, and other paper-based collections.
  • Knowledge of conservation theory, ethics, treatment methodologies, documentation standards, and preventive conservation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports and convey technical information to diverse audiences.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Commitment to supporting the museum's efforts to foster a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace.

Compensation & Benefits
Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package:
Hiring Range: $55,000-62,000
The expected hiring range is an estimated amount for positions based on the grade. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, qualifications and other job-related reasons.
  • Benefits
  • PTO Overview
  • Job Classification: Full time Exempt
  • Employment Category: Full time Staff
  • Grade Level: 7

If you are accessing this listing from a third party, not all links to salary and benefits information may work. Please visit our career page at saic/artic.edu/employment for complete information
Application Instructions
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and short portfolio to be considered for this position.
Union
This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.
Accessibility
If you are a job seeker with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to apply for one of our jobs, you will find the contact information to request the appropriate accommodation by visiting the following page:
Accessibility Accommodation for Applicants
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Art Institute of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits, hires and promotes qualified individuals compliant with federal and state laws. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Department of Human Resources at apply_help@artic.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Art Institute Of Chicago employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply